Discover a delightful take on classic meatballs with these Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs! Infused with the bold and zesty essence of Mediterranean cuisine, these meatballs feature ground chicken blended with rich sun-dried tomatoes, luscious feta cheese, and an array of aromatic herbs. This recipe strikes a perfect harmony between flavor and health, making it a fantastic option for any meal. Baked in the oven until they reach a beautiful golden hue, these versatile meatballs can shine as a main course, be served as a scrumptious appetizer, or elevate your salads and grain bowls. For an invigorating finish, don’t forget to drizzle with fresh lemon juice to awaken the flavors even more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground chicken (or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
- Squeeze of lemon (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, parmesan, garlic, green onions, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing each onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim to keep them roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, with an optional squeeze of lemon juice over the top for extra brightness.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs are a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, making them a versatile and satisfying choice for any meal. Packed with protein, fresh herbs, and just a touch of cheese, they offer a tasty way to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired flavors in a healthy, easy-to-make dish. Try them with a simple side salad, in a pita wrap, or with your favorite grain!
Zesty Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground chicken or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
- Squeeze of lemon optional, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, parmesan, garlic, green onions, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing each onto the prepared baking sheet. Aim to keep them roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, with an optional squeeze of lemon juice over the top for extra brightness.